COLT F2D T he new machine for 1970, the Colt F2D, had a new version of the R39 engine designated the R39 Mk. 2. It was the same capacity at 1598 cc, but the power had increased to 240 h.p., giving a top speed of over 250 kmph. Moreover, the Colt F2D aerodynamics had been totally upgraded from the previous year, and in the pursuit of a car with less air resistance, the design talents of Toshiro Honjo had been employed. His package of changes included a new engine cowl, a unique "Snow Cornice" rear end treatment and radiators mounted on either side of the chassis. These much improved cars in the hands of Tetsu Ikuzawa and Kuniomi Nagamatsu entered the JAF GP. Compared to the previous year the international color and flavor of the event had become a lot stronger. Not only the previous seasons Tasman Series entrants, but Formula 1 World Champion Jackie Stewart took part as invited drivers. The race was dominated by Stewart in his Brabham, but the F2Ds of only 1.6 liter capacity did not get left behind by any means and fought all the way to the end with the example of Nagamatsu actually taking 3rd outright and first in class 1, a fantastic result. This year also saw change in the makeup of the top level of the Japanese motorsport world. The main race of the Japan GP had been for Sports Prototype cars and it was this year that the formula cars were confirmed as the top rank of Japanese competition, changing the appearance of the Japan GP from that year on. BACK

Copyright 1996,1997 by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.